| Chinese Text Project Wiki |
《第一回 毗陵驛寶玉返藍田 瀟湘館絳珠還合浦 Chapter 1: Piling Ling Post Jade Returns to Lan Tian, Xiao Xiang Pavilion Crimson Pearl Returns to He Pu》[View] [Edit] [History]
An aligned English translation of this text is available and can be displayed alongside the source text (instructions). Please note that AI has been used in creating these translations. Translation setting: [None] [English]1  | 第一回 毗陵驛寶玉返藍田 瀟湘館絳珠還合浦 Chapter One: Pilingshi Bao Yu Returns to Lantian, Xiaoxiangguan Jiangzhu Returns to Hepu |
| 2 | 話說前《紅樓夢》一書，開卷便說紈子弟未能努力於身，愧負天恩祖德，回憶少年時候只在婦女中廝混，虛擲光陰，又閱歷了盛衰離合，就閨閣中幾個裙釵倒有一番不可及的光景。故請曹雪芹先生編出一百二十回奇文，將自己悔恨普告人間，就遍傳這個十二釵，使千載如聞如見，歸總只在一個情字。 The story begins with the book Hongloumeng. Right from the opening, it speaks of a man of noble birth who failed to strive for self-improvement and thus shamed the grace of heaven and the virtue of his ancestors. Recalling his youth, he had merely mingled among women, squandering time. After experiencing prosperity and decline, partings and reunions, he found that within the female quarters, a few young ladies offered scenes of beauty and charm beyond compare. Therefore, Cao Xueqin composed a hundred and twenty chapters of extraordinary writing to widely proclaim his regrets and remorse throughout the world. He spread the story of these twelve young ladies so that through the ages people would feel as if they had heard and seen them with their own senses. In summary, it all centers on one word: "qing," meaning emotion or affection. |
| 3 | 書中假假真真，寓言不少，無論賈寶玉本非真名，即黛玉、寶釵亦多借影，其餘自元春、賈母以下一概可知。至全書以寶玉、黛玉為主，轉將兩人拆開，令人怨恨萬端。正如地缺天傾，女媧難補。正是寶玉主意，央及曹雪芹編此奇文，壓倒古來情史，順便回護了自己逃走一節，不得已將兩個拐騙的僧道也說做仙佛一流。豈知他兩個作合成雙，夫榮妻貴，寶釵反做其次。直到曹雪芹全書脫稿，寶釵評論起來說：「你兩人享盡榮華，反使千秋萬古之人為你兩人傷心墜淚，於心何安！」於是寶玉再請曹雪芹另編出《後紅樓夢》，將死生離合一段真情，一字字直敘。 The book is filled with a mixture of truth and fiction, containing many allegories. Regardless of the fact that Jia Baoyu's name itself is not real, even Daiyu and Baochai are largely fictionalized figures; as for others such as Yuan Chun and Grandma Jia, their identities are clearly known to be symbolic or representative. The entire book centers on Bao Yu and Daiyu, yet it ultimately separates the two, causing endless sorrow and resentment. Just as when the earth is split and the sky tilts, even Nüwa finds it hard to mend. It was precisely Bao Yu's idea to entrust Cao Xueqin with composing this extraordinary work, surpassing all past love stories. In doing so, he conveniently justified his own escape and, out of necessity, elevated the two fraudulent monks and Taoist道士 who had tricked him into being regarded as a class of immortals or Buddhas. Little did he know that the two of them, having conspired together to form a pair, would achieve honor and wealth—husband honored, wife esteemed—while Baochai ended up in a secondary position. It was not until Cao Xueqin completed the entire book that Baochai, upon commenting on it, said: "You two have enjoyed all kinds of glory and wealth, yet you caused countless people through the ages to grieve and weep for your sake. How can this be at peace with one's conscience?" Thus, Bao Yu once again asked Cao Xueqin to compose another work, Hou Hongloumeng (The Later Dream of the Red Chamber), in which he would truthfully and word for word narrate their true story of life, death, separation, and reunion. |
| 4 | 雪芹亦義不容辭，此《後紅樓夢》之所為續編也。雪芹應承了寶玉，回到書房。是夜夢遊至一所天宮，一字兒排著，一邊是離恨天，一邊是補恨天，都有玉榜金字。便有使女引他進去。 Xueqin also could not refuse out of a sense of duty; this is why Hou Hongloumeng was written as the continuation. Xueqin accepted Bao Yu's request and returned to his study. That night, he dreamt of traveling to a celestial palace, with one word inscribed in order. On one side was "Lihenti," and on the other side was "Buhenti," both marked by jade plaques gilded with golden letters. A female attendant then led him inside. |
| 5 | 雪芹問知兩邊仙府系屬焦仲卿、蘭芝掌管，卻住在兩宮之中。大抵的是有離必補的因果。雪芹到了殿上，拜謁了蘭芝夫人。蘭芝便道：「焦卿赴會去了，請先生來卻有一番囑咐。從前愚夫婦死別生離，人間都也曉得。到了同證仙果，卻虧了近日一位名公譜出一部《碧落緣樂府》，世上方纔得知。而今賈寶玉、林黛玉一事，先生編出《紅樓夢》一書，真箇的言情第一，已經藏在離恨天宮。現在要編後書，也是補恨天必收的冊府。但是他回生一節，我有同難相濟的苦心，也須替我傳出。從前我在離恨天望見一道怨氣，尋出根由，便知黛玉、晴雯之死。恰好焦卿在南海菩薩處回來，知道史太君要重興兩府，求准菩薩，令他補恨回陽。喜有練容金魚，真身未壞，卻有妖僧魔阻，須守時辰。便將黛玉、晴雯之魂交付史太君，帶在宗祠守候。囑我註名補恨，並在離恨冊五兒名下借生。晴雯又比較恨債，寶玉還欠的多，又注定他許多磨折，始令成雙。又恐黛玉留戀富貴不能再入仙班，又令史真人同居指引。我這番作用，一則完我心願，二則付了菩薩慈悲，三則榮國府數應昌盛。而且黛玉這個人從前失意的時候不免憂鬱愁煩，激成了尖酸一路；到得意了，便覺得光明磊落，做出一個巾幗英雄。先生編這個補恨之書，也不可埋沒了。不要說我為了他十分策劃，就是菩薩也十分留情。怕得開棺時不能應准了時刻，還遣韋馱尊君到榮國府送他回生，真是一件絕大因果。先生總要敘明。」雪芹一一記清，也拜謝了。 Xueqin learned that the two celestial mansions were under the jurisdiction of Jiao Zhongqing and Lan Zhi, who resided within these two palaces. Generally speaking, it was a matter of cause and effect—wherever there was separation, there must also be reparation. Xueqin arrived at the hall and paid his respects to Lady Lan Zhi. Lady Lan Zhi said, "Jiao Qing has gone to attend a gathering; however, there is something I must entrust you with." In the past, my husband and I were separated by death and parting in life—this story is well known among people of the world. It was only after we both attained immortal enlightenment that a famous scholar recently composed a work titled "Biluoyuan Yuefu" (The Music Bureau of the Jade Heaven Affinity), and thus people in the world finally came to know. Now, the matter of Jia Baoyu and Lin Daiyu—your composition of Hongloumeng is truly the first in matters of love and emotion, already enshrined within the Palace of Lihenti. Now that you are to compose a sequel, it will also be included in the records of Buhenti. But regarding his return to life, I have a heartfelt effort to help those who share my hardship; you must also convey this on my behalf. Previously, while in Lihenti I observed a thread of resentment and sorrow; tracing its origin, I came to know the deaths of Daiyu and Qingwen. Just then, Jiao Qing returned from the Bodhisattva at the Southern Sea. He learned that Grandma Shi intended to revive both households and had obtained permission from the Bodhisattva, ordering him to restore vitality through Buhenti. Fortunately, there was a golden carp named Lianrong; its true body had not yet perished, but it faced obstacles from an evil monk and must wait for the right time. He then delivered the souls of Daiyu and Qingwen to Grandma Shi, who kept them waiting at the ancestral shrine. I was entrusted with recording their names under Buhenti and arranging for them to be reborn by borrowing a life from the name Wu'er in the Lihenti register. Qingwen, however, had more resentment and debt to repay; Bao Yu still owed much. Thus, many trials were destined for him before the two could finally be reunited as a pair. They also feared that Daiyu might become too attached to wealth and luxury, making it impossible for her to rejoin the ranks of immortals. Therefore, they ordered Master Shi to reside with her and guide her. My efforts in this matter serve three purposes: first, to fulfill my own wish; second, to repay the Bodhisattva's compassion; and third, because the House of Rongguo is destined for prosperity. Moreover, this person Lin Daiyu, when she was previously in a state of disappointment and frustration, inevitably became melancholic and troubled, which led to her sharp and acerbic nature. But once she regained favor and fortune, she felt open-hearted and upright, becoming an extraordinary heroine among women. Therefore, when you compose this book of Buhenti, you must not let her story be forgotten or overlooked. It is not only that I made great plans for him; even the Bodhisattva showed deep compassion. They were afraid that when the coffin was opened, it might not align precisely with the appointed time. Thus, they sent Vaisravana, the guardian deity, to the House of Rongguo to escort him back to life—truly an extraordinary cause and effect. You must be sure to clearly narrate all this." Xueqin carefully recorded everything and also paid his respects in gratitude. |
| 6 | 這曹雪芹就從離恨天進去，再從補恨天出來，夢醒後驚訝不已。因想起前《紅樓夢》一書，只因順了寶玉的意，多有失支脫節、粉飾挪移之處。而今要據事直陳，不妨先自揭清。 Cao Xueqin thus entered Lihenti, then exited from Buhenti; upon waking from the dream, he was greatly astonished. He then recalled that in the previous Hongloumeng, he had followed Bao Yu's wishes too closely, resulting in many inconsistencies and places where events were smoothed over or altered. Now that he was to present the facts truthfully without embellishment, it would not be inappropriate to first reveal everything clearly and openly. |
| 7 | 黛玉本有嗣兄良玉，襲人改嫁亦在賈政未歸之先，香菱小產病危依舊病痊無恙，喜鸞、喜鳳也並未結親，只跟了王夫人作女。 Lin Daiyu originally had a younger brother named Liang Yu; Xiren's remarriage occurred before Jia Zheng returned. Hsiangling, who had suffered a miscarriage and was critically ill, eventually recovered completely without incident. Xiluan and Xifeng did not actually marry but instead became attendants to Lady Wang. |
| 8 | 至一僧一道，道即張道士徒弟德虛，僧即妖僧志九。這德虛道士平日非為，被張道士革逐，遇著志九，傳授邪術。他兩人攝入生魂，幻入夢境，隱身盜物，迷人本性。 As for the one monk and one Taoist, the Taoist was a disciple of Master Zhang named Dexu, while the monk was the evil monk Zhijiu. This Taoist Dexu had long engaged in improper conduct and was expelled by Master Zhang; he then met Zhijiu, who taught him occult arts. The two of them captured living souls and conjured illusions into dreams; they could become invisible, steal objects, and bewilder people's true natures. |
| 9 | 只因史太君信了神佛，寫了一家的年庚送張道士祈禱，就被德虛將黛玉、晴雯的年庚私下寫去了，又串通志九隱身盜玉。誑一萬銀子不能到手，便會了寶玉，哄他：「同去可以見得黛玉、晴雯同成仙佛正果。」 It was because Grandma Shi believed in gods and Buddhas, and had written down the family's birth dates to send to Master Zhang for prayers. This is how Dexu secretly took Lin Daiyu and Qingwen's birth records and colluded with Zhijiu to steal the jade invisibly. When they failed to obtain ten thousand taels of silver, they approached Bao Yu and deceived him by saying: "Going together will allow you to see Lin Daiyu and Qingwen attain the true enlightenment of immortals and Buddhas." |
| 10 | 就伺寶玉出闈，暗灑迷藥，引他到僻靜寓所，將黛玉、晴雯的年庚鍼定在小木人上，就現出兩個人的形貌，如漢武帝望見李夫人一般。寶玉就相信十分，跟著他走，不期著了迷藥就說不出話來。 They then waited for Bao Yu to leave the examination hall, secretly sprinkled a soporific on him, and led him to an isolated residence. There they pinned Lin Daiyu's and Qingwen's birth dates onto small wooden figures, causing their forms to appear as if Emperor Wu of Han had seen Lady Li. Bao Yu believed them completely and followed them, but unexpectedly the soporific took effect, leaving him unable to speak. |
| 11 | 寶玉到了毗陵驛地方，適遇著賈政回京。望見父親旗號，便覺得本性忽然明了。一直奔上船頭，雖未落髮，卻是僧裝，恐上船來惹得賈政驚怪，便在船頭上叩頭。原是素日畏懼賈政，雖當急難之際，渾身異服不敢上前，只望賈政一見即來救他的意思。 When Bao Yu arrived at Pilingshi, he coincidentally encountered Jia Zheng returning to the capital. Upon seeing his father's banner, Bao Yu suddenly felt as if his true nature had become clear once more. He rushed to the bow of the ship, though he had not yet shaved his head; dressed in monk's robes, he feared that boarding would alarm Jia Zheng. Thus, he knelt and kowtowed at the bow instead. This was because he had always been afraid of Jia Zheng; even in this time of urgent distress, dressed in strange attire as he was, he dared not approach. He merely hoped that upon seeing him, Jia Zheng would come to his rescue immediately. |
| 12 | 這賈政在燈光雪影之中，忽見船頭一僧叩頭，急忙趕出一看，便認得是寶玉。正欲拉他進艙，忽有一僧一道跳上船頭，拉寶玉登岸便走。賈政一面跳上岸來，一面大叫，當有家人、長班及水手等四五十個人，聽見呼喚，一齊登岸追趕。這便是為官的勢力，尋常行旅哪有此等威武。 Jia Zheng, in the glow of lantern light and against a backdrop of snowflakes, suddenly saw a monk kneeling at the bow. Hurriedly stepping forward to take a closer look, he immediately recognized it was Bao Yu. Just as Jia Zheng was about to pull him into the cabin, a monk and a Taoist suddenly leaped onto the bow and dragged Bao Yu ashore. Jia Zheng jumped onto the shore and shouted loudly. At once, dozens of family servants, senior attendants, and sailors who had heard his call rushed ashore to chase after them. This was the power of an official; ordinary travelers could never command such authority and might. |
| 13 | 彼時賈政登岸，斷無一人獨去、眾人不從之理。又使僧道二人果有神仙之術，立便騰雲飛去，何從追趕，況且前書中說賈政追至毗陵驛後山前，僧、道、寶玉俱不見了。其實毗陵驛後並無一山，此皆前《紅樓夢》中依了寶玉，故作變幻之文。 At that time, once Jia Zheng had set foot on the shore, there was no way he would go alone while all others refused to follow. Even if the monk and Taoist truly possessed divine powers, they could not have instantly ascended into clouds and flown away without a trace—how then could one possibly chase after them? Moreover, as stated in the earlier book, Jia Zheng pursued them to the rear of Pilingshi's hillside but found neither the monk, the Taoist, nor Bao Yu anywhere. In fact, there is no mountain behind Pilingshi at all; this was entirely a fictionalized account in the earlier Hongloumeng that followed Bao Yu's perspective and created an illusion. |
| 14 | 且說賈政率同眾人追去，不上半里，就雪地之中將寶玉同僧道一齊捉住，即叫人馱了寶玉，捆了僧道，帶回舟中。賈政這一喜非同小可，當即立將寶玉衣裳換過，問他說話，寶玉仍不能言語。賈政知道他著了迷藥，一面令人扶他上炕將息，一面叫將尿糞穢物淋澆僧道二人。又宰犬一隻，將犬血淋了，再將僧道帶進艙中。二人蠻野異常，如何肯跪，苦被犬血穢物淋過不能隱身。賈政便喝令眾人按倒，各處四十大板。僧道叫苦連天，情願供認。 Let us now return to Jia Zheng, who led the group in pursuit. No more than half a li later, they captured Bao Yu along with the monk and Taoist right there on the snowy ground. They immediately ordered someone to carry Bao Yu back while tying up the monk and Taoist and bringing them aboard the boat. Jia Zheng's joy was no small matter; he immediately had Bao Yu change out of his monk's robes and questioned him. However, Bao Yu remained unable to speak. Jia Zheng realized that Bao Yu had been affected by the soporific. While ordering someone to help him lie down and rest, he also commanded that urine and excrement be poured over the monk and Taoist as punishment. They then slaughtered a dog, splattered its blood on them, and finally brought the monk and Taoist into the cabin. The two men were extremely wild and defiant; they refused to kneel. Though they had been drenched in dog blood and filth, their invisibility could no longer be maintained. Jia Zheng then shouted orders for the men to pin them down and administer forty heavy strokes of punishment with a stick to each. The monk and Taoist cried out in agony, finally willing to confess everything. |
| 15 | 賈政喝令實供，始據實供出德虛道人如何出入府中，得知備細；屢次商通隱身偷玉，欲賣銀一萬兩不能到手；因又商同洩恨，假以講經度佛為名，與寶玉約定，就於出闈之日一同逃走；如何用迷藥，使他不能言語，騙出禁城；及到途中，寶玉受苦不過屢次欲逃回，卻被他用言禁嚇。說到此，便截然住口。賈政喝道：「你既將寶玉拐出，究竟要拐到哪裏去？不用極刑如何肯招。」立命將和尚道士夾起。 Jia Zheng ordered them to give a truthful confession, and they finally revealed in detail how Taoist Dexu had repeatedly entered the household, learning all its secrets; how he conspired with others to steal the jade invisibly, attempting to sell it for ten thousand taels of silver without success; how they then plotted together out of spite, pretending to offer Buddhist teachings as an excuse, and arranged with Bao Yu to escape on the day he left the examination hall; how they used a soporific to render him speechless and deceived him into leaving the capital; and how along the way, when Bao Yu suffered greatly and repeatedly tried to run back, they threatened and frightened him into submission. When they reached this point in their confession, they suddenly stopped speaking. Jia Zheng shouted, "You have already led Bao Yu away—just where did you intend to take him?" "How could they possibly confess without being subjected to severe punishment!" He immediately ordered the monk and Taoist to be placed in the pincers. |
| 16 | 二人受刑不過，情願供招，及至放了，依然不說。賈政只得喝令收緊，用木棍敲打腳塊。兩人只得說出，要拐到蘇州去，賣與班裏教戲。賈政還不信，喝令再來。兩人哭叫道：「實在真情，夾死更無別話了。」 Unable to endure the torture, the two men finally confessed willingly; but once released from punishment, they remained silent and said nothing more. Jia Zheng had no choice but to order the torture intensified and have wooden sticks used to strike their feet. Under pressure, the two finally confessed that they had intended to take Bao Yu all the way to Suzhou and sell him to a troupe of actors. Jia Zheng still did not believe them, ordering the torture to continue. The two cried out in anguish: "This is the truth! If you kill us by torture, we have nothing more to say!" |
| 17 | 賈政當將兩人放松，搜他隨身物件，巧巧的那塊通靈玉，即在和尚兜肚中檢將出來，依然帶著金黑線絡子。又在兩人身上搜出許多東西來，逐一指向，不能隱瞞。一箇金紫色葫蘆，口貼玻璃，說是引誘人魂魄入去，幻出百般夢境。一個銅匣子收放迷藥。兩三本假度牒。又一個小小木匣，傾將出來，共有十幾箇小木人。一本小冊，都是男的女的生魂。 Jia Zheng then ordered the two to be released and had their belongings searched. By sheer coincidence, the piece of spiritual jade was found in the monk's waistband, still attached with its golden-black cord as before. They also discovered many other items on the two men's persons, each of which could be traced and pointed out—there was no way to conceal them. One of the items was a golden-purple gourd with a glass stopper, said to be used for luring human souls inside and conjuring up all sorts of dreamlike illusions. Another item was a copper box used for storing the soporific drug. There were also two or three fake Buddhist ordination certificates. Another small wooden box, when opened, revealed more than a dozen tiny wooden figures inside. There was also a small book containing the names and birth dates of both men and women—essentially their living souls. |
| 18 | 賈政翻開一看，開明生魄姓名，下注年庚。看到後面，內有榮國府閨秀一名林黛玉，榮國府使女一名柳晴雯。賈政大驚，喝道：「你將這許多生魂攝來，罪該寸磔！」兩個叩頭道：「爺爺不妨，但將木人身上兩個小鍼輕輕拔下，各人即便回生。」賈政即將黛玉、晴雯的小針拔了，餘者也就一總拔去。 Jia Zheng flipped it open to find a list clearly stating the names of those whose souls had been recorded, with each entry noting their birth dates. Looking further through the book, he found an entry for a young lady from House Rongguo named Lin Daiyu and a female servant also from House Rongguo, Liu Qingwen. Jia Zheng was greatly shocked and shouted, "You have captured so many living souls—your crime deserves to be torn apart by a thousand cuts!" The two men kowtowed and said, "Sir, do not worry. Simply remove the two small needles lightly from each wooden figure, and each person will immediately return to life." Jia Zheng immediately removed the needles for Daiyu and Qingwen, then proceeded to remove all the others as well. |
| 19 | 這黛玉、晴雯便即從當境神引導到賈氏宗祠，聚了魂魄，跟了老太太，送她各自回生，後文另表。且說賈政當下只將通靈寶玉收起來，其餘物件即請程日興師爺來，央及他備細將兩人口供敘出，再寫一付書貼，俟天明了送交地方官，從重辦理。程日興即便到自己船上，連夜與同事趕辦去了。 Lin Daiyu and Liu Qingwen were then led by local deities to the Jia family ancestral shrine, where their souls reunited. They followed Grandma Shi back to life; further details of this will be described later. Let us return to Jia Zheng at that moment. He immediately took possession of the spiritual jade and, for the rest of the items, summoned Cheng Rixing, a senior official in his employ, and asked him to carefully record the full confessions of the two men. Then he prepared an official report to be submitted first thing in the morning to the local authorities for strict handling. Cheng Rixing immediately went to his own ship and, together with his colleagues, worked through the night to prepare everything in haste. |
| 20 | 這裡賈政明知和尚為頭，道士為從，喝令和尚將寶玉迷藥解釋。和尚便請賈政將通靈寶玉仍舊與寶玉帶上，討半碗水，用指頭在水碗裏劃了好些，口中不知念些什麼。念完了即遞給寶玉喝了。一會子，寶玉便能說起話來，便走到賈政跟前請了一個安，說道：「寶玉該死！」賈政便喝了一句：「你這玷辱祖宗不守規矩的奴才！」口裏雖喝著，心中卻老大不忍。你道為何，可憐寶玉生在錦繡叢中，又得了賈母、王夫人百般愛惜，常時有襲人等隨身服侍，焙茗等貼身護從。風兒稍大便說二爺避著些，腳步稍勁，便說二爺慢著走，正如錦屏圍芍藥，紗罩護芳蘭，何等嬌養。今被這賊道拐騙出來，一路上雨雪風霜，免不得挨饑受凍，那一幅黃瘦容顏也就大不比從前了。 Here, Jia Zheng clearly knew that the monk was the ringleader and the Taoist an accomplice; he ordered the monk to explain how Bao Yu had been drugged. The monk then asked Jia Zheng to have Bao Yu wear the spiritual jade once more, and requested half a bowl of water. He dipped his finger into the bowl, drawing various symbols in it while muttering something under his breath that was unintelligible. After finishing his incantation, he handed the water to Bao Yu, who drank it. After a while, Bao Yu regained the ability to speak and approached Jia Zheng with a respectful bow, saying, "Bao Yu is deserving of death!" Jia Zheng shouted at him: "You shameless wretch who disgraces our ancestors and disobeys the family rules!" Though he scolded in words, his heart was filled with deep reluctance. You may wonder why—poor Bao Yu was born into a life of luxury, cherished by Grandma Jia and Lady Wang in countless ways. He had always been attended by Xiren and others who served him personally, as well as Beiming and others who followed him closely for protection. If the wind blew a little too hard, they would say, "Master Er should take some shelter." If his steps were slightly brisk, they would urge him to slow down. He was treated like peonies protected by brocade screens and orchids shielded by gauze—how delicately he had been raised! Now, having been tricked and led away by this wicked Taoist, he had endured rain, snow, wind, and cold along the journey. Naturally, he suffered hunger and exposure, and his once-fair face was now pale and gaunt—far different from before. |
| 21 | 賈政平日雖然待子弟甚嚴，見寶玉噙著兩眼淚，垂了手侍立於旁，未免心中疼惜，便喝令他：「睡下了，明早再問你。」賈政卻又不放心起來，叫他跟著自己同鋪歇息，便喝令眾人將僧道兩人嚴行看守，自己便帶了寶玉踱進房艙。這寶玉生平從未跟著父親睡臥，又自己有了極大過犯，心上七上八落，只怕賈政問他無言回答。哪知賈政解衣就枕，只嘆了幾口氣，卻一聲兒不言語。寶玉跟著睡下，心內暗喜，且挨過一宵再作道理。 Jia Zheng, though usually strict with his children, could not help but feel a pang of pity when he saw Bao Yu standing by with tears welling in his eyes and hands hanging down. He then ordered him: "Go to sleep; we will deal with you tomorrow morning." Yet Jia Zheng still felt uneasy and instructed Bao Yu to sleep in the same room with him. He ordered everyone to strictly guard the monk and Taoist, then led Bao Yu into the cabin. Bao Yu had never before shared a bed with his father, and now that he was guilty of such a serious offense, anxiety gnawed at him. He feared Jia Zheng would question him and leave him speechless in response. Little did he know that Jia Zheng, after undressing and lying down, merely sighed a few times but said not a word. Bao Yu lay down beside him, secretly relieved in his heart and decided to wait out the night before dealing with matters further. |
| 22 | 哪知賈政與寶玉兩人心上各自有個思量，賈政想：「寶玉這個孽障，生下來便銜塊玉在口中，本稀奇古怪，從古未聞，自然性情怪僻；又遇了老太太、太太百般護短，不由我教管他。 Little did they know that both Jia Zheng and Bao Yu were thinking their own thoughts. In his mind, Jia Zheng mused: "This wretched child, Bao Yu—since birth he has held a jade in his mouth, an oddity never heard of from ancient times. Naturally, his character is eccentric; furthermore, with Grandma Jia and Lady Wang always shielding him and refusing to let me discipline him..." |
| 23 | 放著孔孟之書不肯用心研究，從小兒只在姊妹中間調脂弄粉，學些詩詞。成親以後，不知著了什麼魔頭，小小年紀便看到內典諸書，妄想成佛作祖。說也可笑，這正是聰明兩字誤了他。具此天資不走正道，以至今日竟欲棄世離塵，幾喪匪徒之手，實實可恨。」不覺咬牙切齒的一番。 ...he refuses to study the works of Confucius and Mencius with diligence, but instead has always played around with his sisters, applying cosmetics and learning poetry. After marriage, I don't know what kind of demon has taken hold of him—he is so young yet already reading Buddhist scriptures and foolishly dreaming of becoming a Buddha or patriarch. It's laughable to say, but this is precisely how the words "cleverness" have ruined him. With such natural talent, he does not pursue the right path; as a result, today he has even wanted to abandon this world and flee from worldly affairs, nearly falling into the hands of villains. How truly regrettable!" He could not help but grit his teeth in anger. |
| 24 | 又想：「他不如此聰明，做一個尋常子弟，反無此等墮落。卻又虧他做一件像一件，便成人的也趕他不上。他在舉業上並未用過功夫，不比蘭兒自幼埋頭苦讀，怎麼著幾個月工夫一舉成名，便高高地中一箇第七名舉人出來。這也實在稀罕。 Yet he also thought: "If only he were not so clever, and had been an ordinary son instead, perhaps he would never have fallen into such ruin. But then again, it is precisely his cleverness that allows him to accomplish each task well—ordinary people cannot match his abilities. He has never put in effort on the imperial examinations, unlike Lan'er, who studied diligently from a young age. How is it that within just a few months he managed to achieve sudden fame and was ranked seventh among the successful candidates of the metropolitan examination? This is indeed extraordinary. |
| 25 | 同時勛戚子弟，千選萬揀，實無其人，怪不得北靖王一見面就刮目相待。只道他無下落的了，哪知他又自己走了回來，畢竟是賈氏家運未衰，此番帶回去嚴嚴管教，也沒有老太太護短，便有太太，見此光景也不能阻擋，或者成就起來，還有些出息。只是這番回去如何見人？只好說他在近京山寺中盤桓，支飾過去。」 At the same time, among the sons of noble and influential families, there is hardly anyone who can match him—no wonder Prince Bei Jing regarded him with great respect upon their first meeting. I thought he was lost forever, but now here he is back on his own. Clearly the Jia family's fortune has not yet declined entirely. If I take him back and strictly discipline him this time, without Grandma Jia shielding him, even if Lady Wang tries to intervene in such a situation, she will be unable to stop it. Perhaps then there might still be hope for him to amount to something. But how can I face others upon returning like this? I can only say that he has been lingering in a temple near the capital, and manage to cover it up." |
| 26 | 又想：「他這瘋顛之病，據他母親說，實是因黛玉而起，莫不是逃走出家也因黛玉？今據和尚所說黛玉尚可回生，倘此言果真，必定將黛玉配了他，方可杜他的妄想。」因又想起：「黛玉之母從小與我友愛，不幸故世，單留此女，雖有嗣子良玉，究非親生。我原該立定主意，將黛玉定為媳婦，何以出門時草草的聘定了寶釵。這總是太太姊妹情深姑嫂誼薄，故自己外甥女便要聘來，我的外甥女便要推出，抬出老太太作主，叫我不敢不依。其實黛玉為人又穩重又伶俐。初到府中人人稱贊，老太太珍愛她也同寶玉一般。後來總為璉兒媳婦在老太太面前說短說長；又在太太面前說白道黑，即使贊她，也是暗裏藏刀，形容她的尖利。後來太太也一路說去，老太太也不大疼了，我在中間豈不知道。 He also thought: "According to his mother, this madness of his actually stemmed from Daiyu. Could it be that he fled and became a monk because of her as well?" Now, according to the monk's words, Daiyu might still be brought back to life. If this proves true, I must certainly marry her to him in order to put an end to his wild fantasies." He then recalled: "Daiyu's mother and I were close friends from a young age, but unfortunately she passed away early, leaving behind only this daughter. Though there is an adopted son, Liangyu, he is not her biological child after all. I should have made up my mind long ago to marry Daiyu as my daughter-in-law. Why, when I went out, did I hastily betroth Baocai instead?" This is all because Lady Wang values her sisterly bond with Grandma Jia more than the relationship between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. Thus, she insisted on marrying in her own niece while pushing out my niece, citing Grandma Jia as the authority, leaving me no choice but to comply. In truth, Daiyu is both steady and clever in character. When she first arrived at the mansion, everyone praised her; Grandma Jia cherished her just as much as Bao Yu. Later on, it was always Lian'er's wife who gossiped about her in Grandma Jia's presence and spread malicious rumors before Lady Wang. Even when she praised Daiyu, it was done with hidden daggers, highlighting her sharpness and cunning. Later on, Lady Wang continued to spread these words, and Grandma Jia no longer favored Daiyu as much; I in the middle could not possibly be unaware. |
| 27 | 好好的榮寧兩府，被璉兒媳婦弄得家破人亡。人命也來了，私通外官也來了。直到而今，還落下了一箇重利盤剝小民的名號，祖宗聽見也要髮豎起來。叫她過來管這幾年，弄到這個地步。畢竟是她妒忌黛玉，只恐做了寶玉媳婦，便奪他這個榮國府的帳房一席。故此暗施毒計，活活地將黛玉氣死，順便又迎合了太太，娶了這個寶釵過來，忠忠厚厚，不管閒事，她便地久天長霸住這府。到如今她何處去了？ 翹了尾巴，只留下了一個巧姐。」賈政想到此處，卻把恨寶玉的心腸恨在死過的王熙鳳身上，卻又巴巴地望黛玉回生起來。 The once-prosperous Rong and Ning mansions have been reduced to ruin by Lian'er's wife. Murders have occurred, and there are even cases of secret dealings with outside officials. Even now, the family has earned a reputation for exploiting common people for profit—our ancestors would surely be furious if they heard of it. I let her take charge these past few years, and look at the mess she has made of things! After all, it was her jealousy toward Daiyu. She feared that if Daiyu became Bao Yu's wife, she would lose the position of head accountant in the Rongguo Mansion. Therefore, she secretly plotted and drove Daiyu to death by sheer heartbreak. In doing so, she also pleased Lady Wang and married Baocai into the family—Baocai is loyal and obedient, never meddles in affairs, allowing her to maintain control over this household for years to come. Where has she gone now? She's run off, leaving behind only Xiao Jia." At this thought, Jia Zheng transferred his anger toward Bao Yu onto the long-dead Wang Xifeng, yet at the same time earnestly hoped that Daiyu might return to life. |
| 28 | 寶玉卻想道：「我自出娘胎，錦衣玉食，天天在姊妹隊中過日。從前那等樂趣，雖未稍涉淫邪，然出世為人，哪一件事不稱心滿意。只因林妹妹亡過，方才懊惱，想到出家起來。我原想成了仙佛後，到天上去尋著林妹妹一同過日；又遇著這和尚到我府裏說得成佛法兒十分容易，只要避去紅塵，同他到大荒山中坐了十日，一回兒明心見性，即可肉身上天尋找林妹妹。哪知道這個妖僧自出場相遇，灑了迷藥，摘了通靈，萬苦千辛一直跟到此處。最苦是心頭明白不能語言，一路上服侍這兩個賊禿賊道，上路喝背衣包，下店喝開被鋪，重便打，輕便罵，原來和尚徒弟這等難做。從前焙茗跟我也沒到此地位。我在路上見過幾處官司榜文，寫明走失第七名舉人賈寶玉，開明年貌，各處訪求。我苦不能言語，無從投首。可恨這賊禿賊道，拉我回來，百般苦楚，竟要賣我做戲子；幸虧這兩賊戒的是淫邪，生恐破法，不然還了得！如今這兩賊也被老爺處夠了，不知明早交到衙門還如何現報呢。最喜老爺將林妹妹、晴雯的針兒都拔了，或者真箇的回生起來。我若今生今世再見了這兩個人兒，我還要成什麼佛，這不是活神仙了？只是想起離家之日對著太太、大嫂子、寶姐姐說起進場的話帶些禪機話頭，臨行還仰著天說：『走了，走了。』這回子又跟了老爺回去，可不臊呢！就算她們不牽線，被環兄弟、蘭兒說笑也就臊得了不得；況且出門去還有各世交、各親友，真正臊也臊死，不知老爺可能替我編謊遮蓋了些？」 Bao Yu, however, thought: "Since the day I was born, I have been dressed in fine clothes and feasted on delicacies, living every day among my sisters. Though I have never engaged in any licentiousness before, the pleasures of those days were all so delightful. As a human being, was there ever anything that did not go according to my heart's desire?" It was only after Lin Meimei passed away that I became despondent and began thinking of becoming a monk. I originally thought that after becoming a sage or Buddha, I could go to heaven and find Lin Meimei again to live with her. Then this monk came to our house and claimed the path to enlightenment was very easy—just by avoiding worldly affairs and sitting with him in the Great Wasteland Mountains for ten days, one could attain true understanding and use their physical body to ascend to heaven in search of a beloved. Little did I know that this demon monk, upon meeting me, sprinkled a drugging powder and took my spiritual jade. Through countless hardships, he has now led me all the way here. The worst part was being fully conscious yet unable to speak. Along the way, I had to serve these two bandit monks and Taoists—whoever carried a bag or luggage on the road, whoever made the beds in an inn—any slight mistake brought scolding, any serious one led to beating. I never knew that being a monk's disciple was so hard! Even Beiming, who has served me before, was never treated this badly. On the road I saw several official notices posted in public, clearly stating that the seventh-place metropolitan examination candidate Jia Bao Yu had gone missing. They described his appearance and urged people everywhere to search for him. I was in pain, unable to speak, with no way to turn myself in. It is most regrettable that these two villains dragged me back and subjected me to all sorts of suffering, even planning to sell me as a performer. Fortunately, they are monks who take vows against lust and fear breaking their discipline—otherwise, I would not have known what might have happened! Now these two villains have been sufficiently dealt with by Master, and I wonder how they will be punished tomorrow when they are handed over to the authorities. What pleases me most is that Master has removed all the needles from Lin Meimei and Qingwen—perhaps they will truly return to life. If I were to see these two people again in this lifetime, what need would I have for becoming a Buddha? That wouldn't be the very embodiment of immortality itself? Yet thinking back to the day I left home, when I spoke cryptic Buddhist words about entering the examination hall before Lady Wang, my elder sister-in-law, and Baocai, and as I was leaving, looked up at the sky and said, "I'm gone, I'm gone," Now returning with Master like this, it's truly embarrassing! Even if they don't bring it up, being teased by Brother Huan and Lan'er would be enough to make me feel ashamed beyond measure. Moreover, there are also many old friends and relatives outside the family—this shame could truly kill me! I wonder whether Master has fabricated some lies to cover for me?" |
| 29 | 又想起：「和尚這個葫蘆裡也有趣，我雖從他授過隱身法，只不能得了他這個葫蘆，原來夢境也可變幻的。 我從前許多幻夢，只怕也是他預先擺布，怪道有許多境界，有許多冊子。我告訴人，人還不信。我如何弄他這個葫蘆來，自己也帶回去試他一試，也就有趣得很。」 He also thought: "There is something intriguing about the monk's gourd. Though I learned an invisibility technique from him, I was never able to obtain his gourd myself. It turns out that even dreams can be transformed." Many of the illusions and dreams I had before must have been prearranged by him. No wonder there were so many scenes and so many books." When I told others, they did not believe me. How could I get hold of his gourd and take it back with me to try for myself? That would be very interesting indeed." |
| 30 | 忽又想起：「從前琪官一事被老爺打得半死，害得林妹妹傷心得了不得。如今做了逃走的事情，比琪官的事情更大，不知老爺發作起來怎麼好。這裏又沒有太太救護，不要性發起來活活的處死。趁路上更深夜靜，掠入河流，豈不是走到船中自送性命。」卻回想賈政神情，大有憐惜之意，或未忍下此毒手。想到此處，又懷起鬼胎來。總是寶玉小心兒性，經此一番風波，尚不肯一心歸正。 Suddenly, he recalled: "Earlier, I was nearly beaten to death by Master over the Qiguan incident, which caused Lin Meimei unbearable grief. Now that I have run away, this is an even graver matter than the Qiguan affair. I wonder how Master will react when he gets angry." There's no Lady Wang here to protect me—should his temper flare, I might be executed on the spot. Why not jump into the river during this deep night and escape? It would only mean throwing my life away by walking straight to my death on the boat." Yet recalling Jia Zheng's expression, there was a clear look of pity in his eyes. Perhaps he would not be so cruel as to take my life. At this thought, anxiety began to gnaw at him again. Bao Yu's cautious nature always made him so; despite going through such a turbulent experience, he still could not bring himself to fully return to the right path. |
| 31 | 這段文章雖則無關正經，卻有一番點悟。天下聰明弟子，再不要引他論道談禪，致為匪人所誘，沉迷不悟。只就賈氏府中前面一個賈敬，後面一個寶玉，便是榜樣。 Though this passage may seem unrelated to serious matters, it contains an important realization. Therefore, all the clever disciples in this world must not be led into discussing Daoist or Buddhist teachings, lest they fall prey to villains and become so entranced that they fail to awaken. Just look at the Jia family mansion—first there was Jia Jing in front, and then Bao Yu behind; they are both examples of this. |
| 32 | 幸寶玉走得回來，那賈敬便拋家離室渺渺冥冥地去了。每有士大夫功名成，遂養靜坐關，這班無賴小人假托秘方，千方引誘。或煉丹以取利，或以養原神煉大丹之說騙取資財，也有小小效臉蠱惑人心，弄到頭來終無成就。一五一十算來，他卻未曾空過，總得了手去。吃過虧的還不肯說，他反說自己魔頭，替他掩飾。 Fortunately, Bao Yu returned, but Jia Jing had already abandoned his family and home, vanishing into the unknown. Whenever a scholar-official achieves success in his career, he often turns to quiet meditation and seclusion. It is then that these despicable villains falsely claim secret methods and use every trick to lure him in. Some may concoct pills for profit, or use the idea of cultivating one's original spirit and great elixirs to defraud people of their wealth. Some might even show minor effects to deceive others, but in the end, nothing is ever truly achieved. When all was counted and calculated, however, he had not gone through it in vain—he always managed to gain something tangible from it. Even those who suffered losses were unwilling to speak of them, and instead claimed that they had been overcome by their own demons, covering up for him. |
| 33 | 要知漢武帝便是古人中第一聰明天子，求了無數方士，千奇百怪要做神仙，到了後頭，自己真個悟了大道，說出七個字來，便是載在《史記》上的「天下豈有神仙哉」七字。如此說，難道一無神仙？要知神仙只憑功德，不靠打坐。作為人生在世，果能夠親親仁民愛物，不怕不做神仙，這是一定之理。 One must know that Emperor Wu of Han was the most intelligent emperor in ancient times. He sought countless alchemists and, with all sorts of strange methods, tried to become an immortal. In the end, he himself truly realized the great Dao and declared seven words recorded in the Records of the Grand Historian: "How could there possibly be immortals in this world?" If that is so, does it mean there are no immortals at all? One must know that immortals achieve their status through virtue and merit alone—not by sitting in meditation. As human beings living in this world, if one can truly love their family, be kind to the people, and cherish all things, there is no doubt that they will become an immortal—this is a certain truth. |
| 34 | 閒話少說，且說賈政、寶玉同床安睡，一夜不曾睡著。總之彼此皆出意外，快樂處多。況且寶玉新中了高魁，賈政這喜歡不小。不多時天就亮了，爺子兩人即便起身，程日興就過船來，將所辦口供書帖送賈政看了。賈政說很妥，只要諱避「寶玉」兩字。便將寶玉名字挖補，胡亂添改一個小廝名字。 Leaving aside these idle words, let us return to Jia Zheng and Bao Yu sleeping in the same bed. Neither of them managed to get a single night's rest. In short, both were surprised by what had happened, but there was much joy in it for each of them. Moreover, Bao Yu had just passed the metropolitan examination with high honors, which brought Jia Zheng great delight. Before long, the sky began to brighten, and father and son immediately got up. Cheng Rixing arrived on a boat soon after, delivering the written statements and documents he had prepared for Jia Zheng's review. Jia Zheng said it was very well done, but asked only that the name "Bao Yu" be omitted from the records. He then had Bao Yu's name removed and carelessly substituted with another servant's name. |
| 35 | 只說這賊棍盜了府中玉物，用迷藥拐了小廝，途中盤獲供明，理合送地方官照惡棍例打死不必內結。並吩咐各人都替寶玉隱瞞，只說在山寺中避喧，不必說出實在情節，寶玉也便放心。賈政十分疼痛寶玉，一面吩咐將養他，又知他與曹雪芹筆墨至交，一面先寫信安慰家中，並請雪芹趕路下來，與他作伴。寶玉見此情景，倍加感媿。 They claimed that the villains had stolen a jade object from the mansion and used drugging powder to kidnap a servant. After being captured and confessing along the way, they were to be handed over to local officials for execution according to law—there was no need to settle the matter internally. He also instructed everyone to keep Bao Yu's identity a secret, claiming he had gone into the mountains to avoid worldly noise. There was no need to reveal the true circumstances, and thus Bao Yu felt at ease. Jia Zheng was deeply concerned for Bao Yu. On one hand, he gave orders to care for him; on the other, knowing that Bao Yu and Cao Xueqin were close friends in literary circles, he wrote a letter first to comfort his family at home and invited Xueqin to come down quickly to keep Bao Yu company. Seeing this situation, Bao Yu felt even more moved and ashamed. |
| 36 | 不時間，程日興改妥送來，賈政便打轎上岸，將僧道面交地方官，逐一訴說。地方官見系元妃國戚，又是人証確鑿，隨即坐堂審明，將二賊一頓亂棍打死，妖物銷毀訖，然後送賈政回船。這賈寶玉方纔安心適意跟賈政回京不題。 Not long after, Cheng Rixing delivered the revised documents. Jia Zheng then took a sedan chair ashore and handed over the monk and Taoist to local officials in person, recounting each detail of the case. The local officials, upon learning that the case involved a relative of the late Empress Yuan and was supported by solid evidence, immediately held a court session to investigate. The two villains were beaten to death with sticks in public, the cursed objects destroyed, and then Jia Zheng was escorted back to his boat. At this point, Jia Bao Yu finally felt at ease and followed Jia Zheng back to the capital. (To be continued.) |
| 37 | 且說榮國府中自從走失了寶玉，李嬤嬤哭了一場，就老病嗚呼了。王夫人、寶釵等傷得不成樣子，賈璉又迎賈政前去，薛姨媽雖則從旁勸解，說到中間自己也就流淚。只有李紈，見蘭兒中了，心內歡喜，也因寶玉走失，在王夫人面前不敢露出喜歡的意思。又因近日家道艱難，各事掣肘，雖說將老太太靈柩送回，而老太太所留五百金為黛玉送樞之用亦暫挪移。以此黛玉之柩仍停瀟湘館內。 Meanwhile, in the Rongguo Mansion, since Bao Yu had gone missing, Madam Li wept bitterly and soon passed away from grief and old age. Lady Wang, Baochai, and others were so grief-stricken that they looked pitiful. Jia Lian had to go ahead to meet Jia Zheng on the way. Although Aunt Xue tried to comfort them from the side, she too ended up shedding tears in the process. Only Li Wan, upon seeing that Lan'er had passed the imperial examination, felt secretly delighted. Yet because Bao Yu was missing, she dared not show any sign of joy in front of Lady Wang. Moreover, because the family had recently been in difficult straits and various affairs were causing obstacles, although they managed to send Grandmother Jia's coffin back home, the 500 taels of silver left by her for Daiyu's funeral expenses was temporarily diverted. Thus, Daiyu's coffin remained undisturbed in Xiaoxiang Hall. |
| 38 | 王夫人自將襲人嫁與蔣玉函後，日逐將各房中用不著丫頭逐名打發。只有五兒打發出去，仍舊的哭求他媽要進府中。王夫人欲冷其心，不使伏侍寶釵，反使她與惜春、紫鵑同居，一同燒香拜佛，正要她厭煩求去的意思。誰知這五兒跟著惜春、紫鵑十分投合，卻因出去數日感冒起來。初時尚輕，往後越重，誓死不肯出去。紫鵑苦苦的守著她，一息奄奄，竟有黛玉垂危的光景。 After Lady Wang had sent Xiren to marry Jiang Yuhang, she began daily dismissing the names of maidservants in each household who were no longer needed. Only Wu'er, after being dismissed and sent away, continued to weep and beg her mother to let her return to the mansion. Lady Wang wanted to harden her heart, so she did not allow Wu'er to serve Baochai but instead placed her with Xichun and Zijuan. They were all to burn incense and worship the Buddha together, intending for Wu'er to grow weary of this life and request to leave on her own. Little did they know that Wu'er got along very well with Xichun and Zijuan, but after being away for several days, she caught a cold. At first the illness was mild, but later it grew worse, and Wu'er vowed not to leave under any circumstances. Zijuan desperately stayed by her side, watching as Wu'er's condition grew increasingly critical—reminiscent of Daiyu on the brink of death. |
| 39 | 紫鵑正與惜春商議要回明王夫人，這夜紫鵑夢中忽見晴雯走進來，笑容可掬，說道：「紫鵑姐姐，我回來了，你林姑娘也在那裏等著你呢。」紫鵑明記得黛玉是死過的了，卻忘記晴雯也是死過去的，便說道：「晴雯妹妹，你不要哄我，我只不信。」 While Zijuan was discussing with Xichun the need to inform Lady Wang, that night in her dream, she suddenly saw Qingwen walking in, smiling warmly and saying, "Sister Zijuan, I have returned. Your Miss Lin is also waiting for you there." Zijuan clearly remembered that Daiyu had already died, but she forgot that Qingwen was also deceased. She replied, "Little sister Qingwen, don't try to fool me—I won't believe it." |
| 40 | 晴雯道：「我哄你呢，你不信，跟我去見你林姑娘。」這紫鵑趕忙走起來，跟著晴雯一徑到了瀟湘館，真見林黛玉嬌怯怯立在那裡。紫鵑未及開口，黛玉道：「紫鵑妹妹，我自己到了家還不能進去，我好苦。」便將手帕拭起眼淚來。 Qingwen said, "I am not trying to trick you. If you don't believe me, come with me and see your Miss Lin." Zijuan hurriedly got up and followed Qingwen straight to Xiaoxiang Hall, where she indeed saw Lin Daiyu standing there, frail and delicate. Before Zijuan could speak, Daiyu said, "Little sister Zijuan, even though I have arrived at my home, I cannot enter. How wretched I am." She then wiped her tears with a handkerchief. |
| 41 | 紫鵑一痛欲絕，正要說話，晴雯道：「林姑娘，我已替你找了紫鵑姐姐來，我要進我的屋子去了。」紫鵑回身拉住，卻被晴雯推跌了一跤。醒來卻是一夢。不覺冷汗渾身，一盞孤燈半明半滅，聽更鼓已打四更。紫鵑傷感不已，立起身剔亮燈，走到五兒炕前，問她可要湯水，只見微微氣息。紫鵑送過黛玉，也不懼怕，便將燈攜近，喚老婆子將稀粥湯輕輕地灌下去。五兒竟一口氣喝了幾口，漸漸地咳了幾聲，到五更時說起話來，道：「這是哪裏？」 Zijuan was overwhelmed with grief and about to speak when Qingwen said, "Miss Lin, I have already brought Sister Zijuan for you. Now I must go back to my own room." Zijuan turned around and tried to hold her, but was pushed over by Qingwen. When she awoke, it had all been a dream. She felt cold sweat drenching her body as the single lamp flickered dimly in the room. She heard the drum signaling it was already the fourth watch of the night. Zijuan felt deeply sorrowful and got up to trim the lamp, then walked over to Wu'er's kang bed. She asked if she needed any soup or water, but saw only a faint breath of life in her. Zijuan, having once accompanied Daiyu in death and not fearing it now, carried the lamp closer and called an old woman to gently feed Wu'er some thin porridge. To everyone's surprise, Wu'er took a few sips in one breath and gradually began to cough. By the fifth watch of the night she was able to speak, asking, "Where is this?" |
| 42 | 紫鵑道：「五兒妹妹，你糊塗了？這不是你的炕？我還坐在炕沿上呢。」 Zijuan said, "Little sister Wu'er, are you confused now? Isn't this your kang bed?" "I am still sitting on the edge of the kang." |
| 43 | 五兒搖頭道：「我不是五兒，是晴雯。」紫鵑大驚，想起夢景，難道是晴雯借軀重生不成？連這老婆子也慌了手腳，即便告之惜春。一屋子還有七八人一齊趕進來，圍到五兒炕前。 Wu'er shook her head and said, "I am not Wu'er. I am Qingwen." Zijuan was greatly startled and recalled the dream—could it be that Qingwen had returned to life by borrowing Wu'er's body? Even the old woman became flustered and immediately informed Xichun. A few more people in the house rushed over at once, gathering around Wu'er's kang bed together. |
| 44 | 聽聽她的聲音口氣，宛然晴雯。本來面貌一毫無二，越看越像起來。 Listening to her voice and manner of speaking, they found it strikingly similar to Qingwen's. Her appearance was exactly the same as before, and with each glance she seemed more like Qingwen than ever. |
| 45 | 紫鵑便說：「大家不要驚慌，或是五兒病得糊塗了，或者著了邪也未可定的，就是晴雯借軀回生，也是有的。總等天明了，大家回太太去。只是方纔一夢十分奇怪，難道真箇晴雯轉生不成？」 Zijuan then said, "Everyone, don't panic. It might be that Wu'er is delirious from her illness or perhaps has been possessed by an evil spirit. Even if Qingwen were to return to life through this body, it's not impossible." We should wait until morning and then go together to inform Madam Wang." "But just now, the dream was very strange. Could it be that Qingwen has truly been reborn?" |
| 46 | 惜春問：「是什麼夢？」紫鵑便將夢中的光景一一的說出來。惜春道：「這麼說，連你林姑娘也要活過來了？」紫鵑道：「正是呢。我這會子恨不得就到瀟湘館，把林姑娘扶起來。夢中明明白白，好不奇怪。」 Xichun asked, "What kind of dream was it?" Zijuan then recounted the details of her dream one by one. Xichun said, "Then does this mean your Miss Lin will also come back to life?" Zijuan replied, "Exactly." At this moment I can't wait to go to Xiaoxiang Hall and help Miss Lin up. "It was all so clear in the dream—how strange it is!" |
| 47 | 紫鵑正說話間，炕上病人便說道：「有甚奇怪，我剛纔同林姑娘回來，原是明明白白的。只是你們回了太太，要便太太重新攆我出去。但前頭攆我時恐我引誘二爺，如今二爺不在家，也不妨留我幾時，等二爺回來再攆。」惜春一聞此言，硬著膽過來，便當她真是晴雯，便道：「你敢則知道二爺下落？」 While Zijuan was speaking, the patient on the kang bed said, "What is there to find strange? I just returned with Miss Lin. It was all perfectly clear." "But if you go and tell Madam Wang, she will surely send me away again." "Before, you sent me away because I was suspected of tempting Second Master. Now that he is not at home, there's no harm in keeping me for a while longer and sending me away only after he returns." Xichun, upon hearing this, mustered her courage and approached, treating her as if she were truly Qingwen. She said, "Then do you know where Second Master is now?" |
| 48 | 晴雯道：「我與林姑娘原同二爺一處走，如今林姑娘也回生了，二爺也就待回家了。」 惜春、紫鵑各人俱有心事，一想寶玉一想黛玉，一聞此言不勝大喜，便知炕上的真是晴雯，便催她再喝了幾口粥湯，索性問她底裏。這晴雯命中注定重生，定了一更多神，神形已合。惜春又將人參嚼碎，攙入飲湯，又強她喝了些。 Qingwen replied, "Miss Lin and I originally traveled with Second Master together. Now that Miss Lin has returned to life, he will soon be returning home as well." Xichun and Zijuan each had their own thoughts—thinking of Bao Yu, thinking of Daiyu—and upon hearing this news, they were overjoyed. They now knew for certain that the one on the kang was indeed Qingwen. They urged her to drink more porridge soup and then boldly asked her about the details. It had been fated that Qingwen would be reborn, and after a further hour of divine transformation, her spirit and body were once again united. Xichun then chewed up some ginseng and added it to the soup, forcing her to drink a little more. |
| 49 | 晴雯半眠半坐，靠著老婆子坐起來，將賈政途中遇見寶玉、審問僧道、拔針釋放之事逐一說將出來，還說道：「有個引路神，將我同林姑娘送到間壁宗祠跟著老太太過來的。現今林姑娘已在瀟湘館內，只等明日巳初一刻，立便回生。二爺在老爺船中，少不得一同回府。」這惜春、紫鵑聽了，顧不得真假，即便趕到王夫人房中，敲開房門進去。誰知王夫人床邊明燈猶燦。 Qingwen, half-lying and half-sitting up with the help of an old woman, recounted in detail how Jia Zheng had encountered Bao Yu on his journey, interrogated the monk and Taoist, removed their needles, and released them. She also said, "There was a guiding spirit who brought me and Miss Lin to the ancestral temple next door and followed Grandmother here." At present, Miss Lin is already inside Xiaoxiang Hall. She will return to life at exactly the first moment of the morning (around 9:00 a.m.) tomorrow." "Second Master is on his father's boat and will inevitably return to the estate together with him." Xichun and Zijuan heard this and, without caring whether it was true or false, hurried to Lady Wang's room, knocked on the door, and rushed in. Little did they know that a bright lamp still burned beside Lady Wang's bed. |
| 50 | 原來老太太亡過後，王夫人依了老太太遺言，因喜鸞、喜鳳父母雙亡，即過房過來，看做親生一樣。只這兩個人陪著王夫人住在裏房。二人進來，王夫人正自擁衾獨坐，默然出神，兩個人便把晴雯之言逐一細說。王夫人不覺喜歡極了，說道：「這也實在奇怪，我在四更時，清清楚楚夢見老太太顫巍巍地走來，拍拍我說道：『好了，林丫頭重生了。明日巳初一刻，快快去開了棺救她。』我十分害怕，只怕老太太陰靈嗔怪我留下她五百金一宗送柩怠慢。 It turned out that after Grandmother Jia passed away, Lady Wang followed her grandmother's last wishes. Since Xiluan and Xifeng had both lost their parents, they were formally adopted into the family and treated as if they were her own children. Only these two girls lived with Lady Wang in the inner quarters. When they entered, Lady Wang was just sitting alone with her quilt wrapped around her, lost in thought. The two girls then recounted Qingwen's words to her one by one in detail. Lady Wang was overjoyed and said, "This is indeed strange. At the fourth watch of last night, I clearly dreamed that Grandmother came to me in a trembling manner, patted my shoulder, and said, 'It's settled—Lin's girl has been reborn." "At the first moment of tomorrow morning (around 9:00 a.m.), go quickly and open her coffin to save her.'" "I was very frightened, fearing that Grandmother's spirit might be angry with me for having delayed Daiyu's funeral by using the 500 taels she left behind." |
| 51 | 我便說：『老太太不要多心。林姑娘送柩一事日夜在心，即當趕辦。』老太太就惱起來說道：『你不要糊塗，我與你說正經話，你反當戲言，豈有此理！不要說林丫頭與寶玉前生配定姻緣，便是榮寧兩府將來也要在林丫頭手中興旺起來。你記著，你若不信，還你一件信物。』說罷，便將手中壽星拐擲將過來。嚇得我一霎時驚醒了，床上確有老太太生前的壽星拐。你們看看是不是？」 I replied, "Grandmother, please don't worry." "I have been thinking about Miss Lin's funeral day and night. I will immediately make arrangements to handle it." Grandmother then became angry and said, "Don't be foolish. I was speaking seriously to you, yet you treat it as a joke—how unreasonable!" "Do not forget that Miss Lin and Bao Yu were destined to be married in a past life. Moreover, the future prosperity of both Rong and Ning mansions will depend on her." "Remember this. If you do not believe me, I shall give you an object as proof." After saying that, she threw the cane of the longevity star in Lady Wang's direction. I was so frightened I woke up suddenly, and to my surprise, there on the bed was indeed Grandmother's longevity cane from when she was alive. "Take a look for yourselves—isn't it?" |
| 52 | 那紫鵑先走上來一看，惜春便道：「這是老太太去世以後，老爺親手封好，裝在錦囊，橫在老太太內房壁櫥上，說是手澤所貽，不許擅動。若非老太太陰靈示信，如何出來。如此看來，林姑娘真個要重生呢？」 Zijuan stepped forward first to take a look, and Xichun said, "This cane was sealed by Master Jia himself after Grandmother passed away. It was placed in a silk pouch on the shelf inside her private room. He said it was an object of sentimental value and forbade anyone from touching it." Unless Grandmother's spirit had revealed this as proof, how could it have come out?" If that is the case, then Miss Lin must truly be about to return to life!" |
| 53 | 王夫人一頭說，一頭不知不覺就穿衣起來，挽挽頭髮說道：「快請寶二奶奶去，不管晴雯真活假活，且問她去。」便穿好了衣服，同惜春、紫鵑一直過來，連喜鸞姊妹也來了。寶釵自從寶玉走失了，每每晚間不寬衣解帶，一聞此信，即便同鶯兒趕來。 While speaking, Lady Wang unconsciously got up and began dressing, tucking her hair back as she said, "Quickly go get Bao Er's wife. Whether Qingwen is truly alive or not doesn't matter—ask her directly." She finished dressing and, together with Xichun and Zijuan went straight over. Even the sisters Xiluan also came along. Since Bao Yu had gone missing, Baochai had been sleeping in her clothes every night. Upon hearing this news, she immediately hurried over with Ying'er. |
| 54 | 當下眾人俱走到晴雯炕邊。王夫人便在炕沿上坐下，拉著晴雯的手，說道：「好孩子，你只管說。」這晴雯便依先的說了一遍，王夫人也將夢景告訴她。 At once, the group arrived at Qingwen's kang bed. Lady Wang sat down on the edge of the kang, took Qingwen's hand, and said, "Dear child, just go ahead and tell us." Qingwen then repeated the story as before, and Lady Wang told her about her dream. |
| 55 | 晴雯道：「可不是呢，明明白白我同林姑娘一路走，跟了老太太回來。老太太原要同了林姑娘到太太房中，林姑娘不肯，故此叫我送她到瀟湘館去。往後林姑娘使我找紫鵑姐姐，我就來找，不知老太太哪裏去了。」 Qingwen said, "Exactly so. It was perfectly clear that I walked with Miss Lin all the way and followed Grandmother back." "Grandmother originally wanted to bring Miss Lin into your room, but Miss Lin refused. That is why I was sent to take her to Xiaoxiang Hall." "After that, Miss Lin asked me to find Sister Zijuan. I came looking for her and had no idea where Grandmother had gone." |
| 56 | 王夫人、寶釵等聽了，俱各大喜，直如寶玉已經見面一樣。王夫人便將晴雯的手放了，說道：「好孩子，真個這樣，你便是我的親生女兒。寶玉回來便留在他房中，回明老爺，叫你們一輩子過活。」 Upon hearing this, Lady Wang, Baochai and the others were all overjoyed, as if they had already met Bao Yu in person. Lady Wang released Qingwen's hand and said, "Dear child, if this is truly the case, you are as good as my own daughter. "When Bao Yu returns, he will stay in your room. I shall inform Master Jia and make sure you all live comfortably for the rest of your lives." |
| 57 | 這晴雯生來氣性剛強，受不得一毫委屈，雖則死後重生，卻也性情不改，便說道：「多謝太太恩典，往後不攆就夠了！」眾人盡皆吐舌，紫鵑便道：「既然如此，誰到瀟湘館去？」眾人齊聲道：「大家同去。」只有晴雯掙不起來，便留個老婆子、小丫頭伴了她，餘者盡去。這時候傳開了，免不得五兒之母進來傷痛一場。難得晴雯肯認為母，後文不表。 Qingwen had always been a strong-willed girl who could not tolerate even the slightest injustice. Though she had returned to life after death, her character remained unchanged. She said, "Thank you for your kindness, Madam. As long as I am not sent away again, that will be enough!" Everyone was stunned into silence. Zijuan then asked, "If this is the case, who will go to Xiaoxiang Hall?" All present spoke in unison: "Let us all go together." Only Qingwen could not get up, so an old woman and a young maid were left to stay with her while the rest went. Word of this spread quickly, and inevitably Wu'er's mother came in and wept bitterly over it. It was rare for Qingwen to be willing to recognize her as a mother; the details of what happened afterward will not be recounted here. |
| 58 | 當時王夫人等俱進瀟湘館內，一路竹影苔痕，十分幽靜，開進窗去，倒也明潔無塵。向知紫鵑時來灑掃，眾人歎息。不一時，薛姨媽、李紈也來了，香菱也急急地趕了來。 At that time, Lady Wang and the others all entered Xiaoxiang Hall. Along the way, bamboo shadows and mossy traces created a very quiet atmosphere. Opening the windows revealed a bright and clean interior free of dust. It was known that Zijuan had come to sweep and tidy up at this time, so the people sighed with admiration. In no time, Auntie Xue and Li Wan also arrived, followed by Xiangling who hurried over in haste. |
| 59 | 還是李紈有見識，先將鐘表定起時辰，隨命將一付潔淨齊整的被褥向黛玉床上鋪設起來，裝起寶爐，細細地焚起養神香及尸木錦紋香。一壁廂供起香燭，往樓上取下南極長生大帝、救苦觀世音、壽星神像三軸，供將起來，再叫柳嫂子搬進小櫥房，應用家伙什物安放側廂後院。眾人靜悄悄的不許驚惶。 It was Li Wan who had the most discernment. She first set the clock to mark the time, then ordered a clean and complete set of bedding to be laid out on Daiyu's bed. A censer was placed and carefully lit with spirit-nourishing incense and shimu jinwen fragrance. On one side, incense and candles were set up for worship. From the upper floor, three scrolls of deities—Nanjing Changsheng Dishi (the Southern Pole Eternal Life Emperor), Jiuku Guanyin, and Shouxing—were taken down and placed in veneration. Then Liu Pozi was ordered to bring in a small cabinet room, placing all necessary utensils and items in the side rooms and rear courtyard. Everyone remained quiet and still, not daring to cause any commotion. |
| 60 | 不一時到了時辰，便叫林之孝、周瑞及走得起的家人進屋裏來，先將門窗關了，吩咐起蓋。這林之孝終是個老總管，便上前擋住道：「這事雖沒有外人知道，但只拿不住准信。萬一不准，未免招犯凶煞。況且林姑娘過去久了，哪裏能夠完好如生。」 In no time, the appointed hour arrived. Lin Zhixiao, Zhou Rui and other capable family members were called into the house. First, they closed all doors and windows, then instructions for the ceremony began. Lin Zhixiao was, after all, an experienced head steward. He stepped forward and blocked the way, saying, "Although no outsiders know about this matter, we still cannot be certain of its authenticity." If it turns out to be false, we might inadvertently invite misfortune and evil spirits. Moreover, Miss Lin has been gone for a long time; how could she possibly return in perfect condition as if still alive?" |
| 61 | 紫鵑便道：「若說身體，定然不壞。從前姑娘在揚州帶來一條練容的金魚，養在水盂，定了性也會遊，臨過去時候給她含在口內的。」 Zijuan replied, "If it is about the body, there is certainly no damage. Before Miss Lin passed away, she brought a golden carp from Yangzhou to preserve her beauty. She kept it in a water basin; even when still, the fish would swim. Right before she died, she put it into her mouth." |
| 62 | 李紈道：「真個的，我也一同瞧著，給她含在口內的。」這王夫人聽了越發相信，哪裡還肯聽他。便叫林之孝下去，周瑞上來。 Li Wan said, "Indeed, I saw this with my own eyes and watched as they placed it in her mouth." Upon hearing this, Lady Wang believed even more firmly; she would not listen to any further objections. She ordered Lin Zhixiao to step down and Zhou Rui to come forward. |
| 63 | 林之孝終是個有擔當的人，看見關係很大，哪裡肯依，顧不得王夫人，就橫身上來攔住周瑞。王夫人便喝：「叉出去！」也並沒有人當真地叉著他，忽然像有個人推倒他似的，真栽出去，栽得發昏。林之孝家的就著人扶他回去了。這屋裏忽然一道紅光，就這紅光裏面閃出一尊神人，恍恍地見他將黛玉的棺木拂了一拂，棺蓋就落下地來，神人就不見了，紅光也散了。眾人便趕上前去圍著瞧。先揭開蓋衾，隨揭隨化，連衣被通是那樣。卻喜的黛玉顏色如生，兩頤起了些紅暈兒。 Lin Zhixiao, after all, was a man of responsibility. Seeing the matter involved great consequences, he would not agree to it and, without regard for Lady Wang, stepped forward to block Zhou Rui. Lady Wang shouted, "Drag him out!" No one actually pushed or dragged him, yet suddenly it seemed as if someone had shoved him over. He truly tumbled out and was knocked into a daze. Lin Zhixiao's wife immediately had people help him back home. Suddenly, a beam of red light appeared in the room. Within that red glow emerged a divine figure. Vaguely visible was this deity brushing over Daiyu's coffin; with a flick, the lid fell to the ground. Then the divine figure vanished and the red light disappeared as well. The people rushed forward to gather around and look. First, they lifted the lid of the coffin; as soon as it was opened, the coverlet began to dissolve. The same happened with her clothes and bedding—everything turned into that formless state. To everyone's joy, Daiyu looked as if she were still alive; a faint flush had returned to her cheeks. |
| 64 | 紫鵑急急的將手去試著，周身俱帶溫和，更喜鼻息間微有生氣流動，便悄悄地叫男人出去，亦不許傳出聲兒。李紈、寶釵忙將兩床軟被過來裹著黛玉，輕輕悄悄抬到裏邊床上臥下，慢慢地將參米湯灌下，也便吃了些。 Zijuan hurriedly put her hand to Daiyu's body and found it warm all over. More joyfully, she noticed a faint breath of life in her nose. She then quietly ordered the men outside and forbade them from making any noise. Li Wan and Baochai quickly brought two soft quilts to wrap around Daiyu, gently carrying her over to the inner bed. They slowly fed her ginseng porridge, which she managed to swallow a little of. |
| 65 | 王夫人只悄悄地叫輕些兒，一面吩咐快將棺木抬出去施捨。恰有個後巷周姥姥為了她利市，就喜喜歡歡領去做了壽木。又悄悄地各處打掃得二十分潔淨。再叫喜鸞、喜鳳同了平兒、琥珀將黛玉的衣箱什物以及陳設各件，都靜悄悄地分著閣上閣下、裏間外間，問明了紫鵑照舊安放這裏。 Lady Wang quietly instructed them to be gentle and at the same time ordered that the coffin be quickly taken out and given away as alms. Coincidentally, an old woman from a back alley named Zhou Lao lao, who had been hoping for good fortune, happily accepted it and used the coffin as her own burial wood. They also quietly cleaned every corner of the place until it was spotless. Then, they ordered Xiluan and Xifeng to go with Ping'er and Hubo to quietly sort out Daiyu's chests of clothes, belongings, and furnishings. They carefully placed each item in the upper or lower cabinets, inner or outer rooms, asking Zijuan for clarification so that everything could be arranged exactly as before. |
| 66 | 李紈等只守著黛玉，直到未初一刻，漸漸地透過氣來，將金魚兒吐出。紫鵑連忙用線穿好，綴緊在黛玉的耳墜子上。黛玉倦眼微舒，星眸半露，仍復合眼睡去。薛姨媽便出個主意，告訴王夫人，快請光明殿羅真人，選擇有名氣並道行高的十六位法師到榮禧堂打醮，各處庵觀寺廟分頭騎馬去寫明香牌，焚香化紙。 Li Wan and the others kept watching over Daiyu until shortly after 4 p.m., when she gradually began to breathe again and spat out the golden carp. Zijuan quickly threaded it with a string and fastened it tightly to Daiyu's earring. Daiyu slightly opened her tired eyes, revealing half of her star-like gaze, then closed them again and fell asleep once more. Auntie Xue came up with an idea and informed Lady Wang to quickly invite Master Luo of Guangming Hall. They should select sixteen well-known and highly accomplished Taoist priests to hold a ritual at Rongxi Hall, while sending riders in all directions to temples, monasteries, and nunneries to write incense plaques, burn incense, and offer paper offerings. |
| 67 | 王太醫也慌忙請來細看，說：「定是回得過來的人，不必服藥，只須靜養養即可復元。」眾人便不分晝夜，時往時來。直到了一周，時到第三日巳牌時分，黛玉方嘆了一口氣，舒開眼來，便怯怯地道：「我的紫鵑妹妹呢？」 Master Wang the physician was also hurriedly summoned to examine her closely. He said, "She is certainly someone who can recover. There's no need for medicine; she only needs rest and quiet care to regain her health." The people then came and went without distinction between day and night. It was not until the seventh day, on the third day at around 9 a.m., that Daiyu finally sighed and opened her eyes. She timidly asked, "Where is my little sister Zijuan?" |
| 68 | 紫鵑連忙上前道：「紫鵑在這裏。」紫鵑直樂得心花四開起來。 Zijuan hurried forward and said, "I am here, Zijuan." Zijuan was overjoyed inside. |
| 69 | 黛玉瞅了一瞅，又怯怯地道：「晴雯呢？」 Daiyu looked around for a moment and then timidly asked, "Where is Qingwen?" |
| 70 | 紫鵑道：「好了，將就也起來了。」王夫人上前叫一聲甥女，黛玉便一聲兒不言語。 Zijuan said, "She's fine now. She has already gotten up." Lady Wang stepped forward and called out to her niece, but Daiyu did not utter a single word in response. |
| 71 | 李紈上前去，黛玉便說道：「好大嫂子。」寶釵上前叫一聲林妹妹，黛玉也叫一聲寶姐姐。只有薛姨媽老人家恐怕煩她神思，拉住香菱並喜鸞姐妹，只遠遠地站著。再過半日，黛玉也就能一口氣喝半杯極稀的人參粥湯。眾人漸漸地放心，再將瀟湘館內細細地灑掃一番。 Li Wan approached, and Daiyu said, "Dear elder sister." Baochai stepped forward and called her "Little Sister Lin," to which Daiyu responded with a call of "Sister Bao." Only Auntie Xue, fearing that it might trouble Daiyu's thoughts, held back Xiangling and the sisters Xiluan, keeping them standing at a distance. Half a day later, Daiyu was already able to drink half a bowl of extremely diluted ginseng porridge in one breath. Gradually, everyone felt more at ease and proceeded to thoroughly sweep and clean Xiaoxiang Hall once again. |
| 72 | 這紫鵑真如孝子一般，同床共歇，無明無夜，衣不解帶。再過幾日，晴雯也能起來了，搬至瀟湘館侍候黛玉。可怪林黛玉性情古怪，自回生之後不喜別人，只有紫鵑、晴雯是她心愛，隨便舉動總要這兩人，其餘只有李紈到來也愛見面。便是寶釵母女也覺得生分了。聽見人來，先叫紫鵑下了帳鉤，面朝裏睡。 Zijuan truly behaved like a filial son, sharing the same bed and rest with Daiyu without distinction of day or night, never loosening her sash. A few days later, Qingwen was also able to get up and moved into Xiaoxiang Hall to attend to Daiyu. It was strange that Lin Daiyu had an eccentric personality. After returning to life, she did not like anyone else; only Zijuan and Qingwen were her favorites. She always insisted on having these two by her side for any action or movement. Others were tolerated only when Li Wan came—she would still be happy to see her. Even Baochai and her mother felt a sense of distance from her now. Whenever she heard someone coming, she would first ask Zijuan to lower the curtain hooks and turn toward the inner side of the bed to sleep. |
| 73 | 王夫人待她倒像見了賈母一般，倒反沒臉。王夫人卻不敢怠慢，一則想起從前自己許多不是，竟是活活害她一般；二則知道賈政的手足情深，林姑太太只遺一女，幸喜回生過來了，稍有怠慢，恐賈政回家不依；三則老太太示夢已驗，分明與寶玉有緣，而且兩府規模俱要在她手中興旺；四則寶玉果真回來要與黛玉見面，若將黛玉輕忽，寶玉仍要瘋顛。為此不知不覺時刻來窺探，倒比伺候賈母加倍小心。無奈黛玉不瞅不睬，王夫人只得忍氣吞聲。 Lady Wang treated her as if she were seeing Grandma Jia herself, which made her feel even more ashamed. Lady Wang, however, dared not be careless. First, she recalled many of her past mistakes, which had seemed to have actually caused Daiyu's death. Second, she knew how deeply affectionate Master Jia was toward his children; Madam Lin had left only this one daughter, and now that she had miraculously returned to life, any slight neglect might cause Master Jia to refuse upon returning home. Third, Grandma Jia's dream had already come true, clearly showing a destined connection between Daiyu and Bao Yu, and the prosperity of both households depended on her. Fourth, if Bao Yu truly did return and wished to meet Daiyu again, treating Daiyu carelessly might cause him to fall into madness once more. For these reasons, without realizing it, Lady Wang constantly came to check on Daiyu at all times, being even more careful in her care than when attending Grandma Jia. Unfortunately, Daiyu ignored and paid no attention to her. Lady Wang had no choice but to swallow her anger and endure in silence. |
| 74 | 一日王夫人正在黛玉房中，忽聽見焙茗一片喧笑之聲，直撞進來。王夫人便喝道：「小奴才，鬧什麼？」焙茗便帶著笑打一千，叩喜說道：「恭喜太太，寶二爺同老爺回來了。」王夫人便笑得說不出來，急問道：「在哪裏？」焙茗便將賈政家信呈上。 One day, while Lady Wang was in Daiyu's room, she suddenly heard a burst of laughter from Bei Ming and he rushed in. Lady Wang shouted, "You little servant! What are you making such a ruckus for?" Bei Ming continued laughing and, after bowing deeply a thousand times in joy, said, "Congratulations, Madam! Young Master Bao has returned with the master." Lady Wang was so delighted she could hardly speak and hurriedly asked, "Where are they?" Bei Ming then presented the letter from Master Jia. |
| 75 | 王夫人看了信說道：「好得很，老爺在路上還沒有遇著璉二爺？」焙茗道：「老爺也喜歡得了不得，還請曹老爺迎上去。曹老爺已將動身，敢則數日內也就到了。」 After reading the letter, Lady Wang said, "That's very good. Hasn't the master met Young Master Lian on the road yet?" Bei Ming replied, "The master is also overjoyed and has even asked Lord Cao to go meet him." Lord Cao has already set out. It will probably be within a few days before they arrive." |
| 76 | 王夫人再將家信高聲念起來，要黛玉聽見的意思。那信中之言卻與晴雯之言一樣。誰知黛玉卻一毫不在心上，直等到王夫人去後，悄悄告訴紫鵑、晴雯說：「往後我耳朵裡不許人提那兩個字。」兩人俱各會意了。 Lady Wang then read the letter aloud again, intending for Daiyu to hear it. The words in the letter were exactly the same as those spoken by Qingwen. Little did they know, however, that Daiyu paid no attention at all. Only after Lady Wang had left did she quietly tell Zijuan and Qingwen, "From now on, I do not want anyone to mention those two words in my hearing." Both of them understood her meaning. |
| 77 | 王夫人一出去，兩府大小俱已盡知，連外邊門客俱來賀喜，合家喜歡。薛姨媽母女二人自不必說。不一日，焙茗又報進來說：「老爺同寶二爺回來了，門上已套車接去了。」王夫人大喜。要知寶玉進門，見王夫人等臊也不臊，如何與黛玉面見，及黛玉理他不理他之處，且聽下回分解。 As soon as Lady Wang left, the news spread throughout both households; even the outside guests came to offer congratulations. The whole family was overjoyed. Needless to say, Auntie Xue and her daughter were also delighted. Not a day later, Bei Ming reported again, saying, "The master and Young Master Bao have returned. The carriage has already been prepared at the gate to meet them." Lady Wang was overjoyed. To find out how Bao Yu entered the house, whether he was embarrassed to see Lady Wang and others, and what would happen when he met Daiyu—whether she would acknowledge him or not—stay tuned for the next chapter. |
URN: ctp:ws234233
| Enjoy this site? Please help. | Site design and content copyright 2006-2026. When quoting or citing information from this site, please link to the corresponding page or to http://ctext.org. Please note that the use of automatic download software on this site is strictly prohibited, and that users of such software are automatically banned without warning to save bandwidth. 沪ICP备09015720号-3 | Comments? Suggestions? Please raise them here.Do not click this link |